Dealing with cultural shocks

Your state of mind can greatly influence your experience. Be open to new ways of living and seeing the world.

You will be going to a place that may be very different from where you’re from. Cultural shocks can be very real, but keep an open mind, put yourself in other people’s shoes, and try to see the world through the eyes of your host and the locals.

Sometimes it can be difficult to get used to a new lifestyle, but remember that it’s only when you step out of your comfort zone that you grow the most as a human being. The comfort zone is nice, but nothing ever changes around there.

Sometimes you’ll come across situations that will make you see how some basic customs are different even within your own country. From the transportation system to interpersonal relationships, the feeling of strangeness that comes in the form of culture shock will introduce you to a new way of life and of interacting with everything and everyone around you. If you experience a cultural shock, embrace the experience and keep your mind and heart open to learning as much as possible. Make an effort to talk to new people. This is your best chance to overcome the shock and enjoy the time you have in your new location.